Antique pocket watches are best understood from the inside out. Dial signatures can be retailer names, cases may have been changed, and identical-looking watches can contain movements of very different quality.
1. Key-wind often uses rear access
Key-wind often uses rear access should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
2. Stem-wind uses the crown
Stem-wind uses the crown should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
3. Setting method may differ from winding
Setting method may differ from winding should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
4. Never force unfamiliar mechanisms
Never force unfamiliar mechanisms should be evaluated alongside the movement maker, exact grade, serial number, size, case material, originality and service status. Record what is visible, separate confirmed facts from seller claims, and avoid winding or opening a watch when the mechanism or case access is uncertain.
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